Is it desirable for a bird to "crab" after striking its quarry?

The behavior of "crabbing" in birds of prey typically refers to a situation where the bird displays aggressive actions or indications of being in a fight, especially when dealing with its quarry. This can be seen as a sign of distress or a struggle rather than a desirable attribute.

In falconry, a successful strike would ideally see the bird maintain control and composure, rather than becoming involved in a chaotic situation that could lead to a fight. Crabbing often suggests the bird is not only in a precarious position but also potentially losing control of the situation, which is unfavorable for both the bird and the falconer. Thus, it is generally undesirable for a bird to crab after striking its quarry, as it indicates complications that could lead to injury or a loss of the catch.

Understanding crabbing in this context helps falconers focus on training their birds to maintain control and confidence when capturing prey.